Character Reference Form For Applicants For The Permanent Diaconate (Page 6 of 9) in pdf

Character Reference Form For Applicants For The Permanent Diaconate Page 6

Diocese of Achonry

Permanent Diaconate Character Reference Form

Diocese of Achonry

Reference Form for Applicants for the Permanent Diaconate

Notes for Referees:

As part of our selection procedures for applicants for the Catholic

permanent diaconate, we need references from a number of people who know

the applicant well. Your name has been given to us by the applicant as a referee

and we welcome your help in writing as full and frank a reference as you can.

What you write will, of course, be treated in confidence; however, please

note that an applicant may request to see what has been written about him.

We realise that you may not have personal knowledge of all of the

aspects we mention, but we will be approaching other referees to help us build

up as full a picture as possible. We are also aware that, in the case of younger

applicants, it is often a case of assessing potential, rather than fully developed

and proven qualities. The following notes about the life of a permanent deacon

might help you to comment appropriately.

The permanent diaconate in the Catholic Church is a life-long

commitment and usually requires three years of part-time formation. Once

ordained, the permanent deacon will work in his home parish or deanery or in

another area of ministry as his diocesan bishop sees fit. This will require

flexibility on the part of the permanent deacon.

1. Faith

The permanent diaconate needs people of a firm yet developing faith that is

practised in everyday matters as well as in regular prayer and worship.

Applicants should know what their faith means to them and should be able to

share it with others, including those with very different views. Firmness of faith

however, does not mean rigidity; nor does it mean never questioning or

examining one's faith. Applicants should live out their religious beliefs in their

daily lives and should hold values that reflect the faith they profess.

2. Care of others

Much diaconal work is concerned with the pastoral care of individuals in

personal distress or difficulty. This requires a degree of sensitivity and care, as

well as the ability to listen and to keep a sense of proportion. In this and other

areas, it is important that the deacon has a good sense of judgement and is able

Character Reference Form For Applicants For The Permanent Diaconate Page 6